Golden Visa Greece: Your path to an EU residence permit

Greece's Golden Visa programme offers non-EU citizens an attractive opportunity to obtain a residence permit in an EU country. With a minimum investment, investors and their families can not only live in Greece, but also travel freely within the Schengen area. This programme has established itself as one of the most popular options in Europe, attracting investors from all over the world.

The programme was introduced in 2013 to promote foreign investment in the real estate sector and the economy. It offers investors a five-year residence permit, which can be extended if the investment remains in place. After seven years, it is possible to apply for Greek citizenship under certain conditions.

New investment conditions will apply from September 2024:

• €250,000: Investment in listed or converted residential properties in certain areas. These properties must be restored to strict renovation specifications to preserve architectural integrity.
• €800,000: New-build or second-hand properties in highly sought-after areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini (minimum 120 m² living space). The growing demand in these areas is driving up property prices and making them particularly attractive to investors.
• €400,000: Residential property in all other regions of Greece (minimum 120 m²). There are attractive opportunities here in less frequented but still promising areas with high potential for long-term value appreciation.

In addition to investing in property, there are other ways to obtain a Golden Visa for Greece:

• Capital investment: Investors can obtain a Golden Visa if they invest at least €400,000 in Greek government bonds, corporate bonds or bank deposits.
• Starting a business: Anyone who starts a business in Greece and creates a certain number of jobs for Greek citizens can also qualify for a Golden Visa.
• Fund and equity investments: Investments in Greek investment funds or alternative investment funds (AIFs) operating in Greece can also lead to the granting of a residence permit.
• Deposit in a Greek bank account: A large deposit in a Greek bank account may also be considered for obtaining a Golden Visa.

Greece is not the only country to offer a Golden Visa programme. Here is a comparison with other popular European programmes:

• Spain: Minimum investment of €500,000 in property, residence requirement of at least 183 days per year.
• Portugal: Minimum investment of €280,000 in property, but with stricter residency requirements.
• Malta: Possibility of citizenship after just one year through higher investments.
• Cyprus: Programme was reformed in 2020, now focuses on business investment.
  
  

Greece offers an attractive investment-to-benefit ratio in comparison, especially for people who prefer flexibility in the length of their stay.

Greece is experiencing positive economic development and property prices are rising, particularly in tourist regions. Demand for high-quality residential property remains high, which offers investors a good opportunity for long-term value appreciation. In addition, new developments and sustainable property projects are particularly in demand.

Golden Visa holders are subject to certain tax obligations, especially if they wish to rent or sell the property. However, Greece offers attractive tax benefits for international investors, including tax relief for pensioners and entrepreneurs.

Greece's Golden Visa programme offers a unique opportunity to gain access to the EU while investing in one of Europe's most beautiful regions. With increasing demand and new legal adjustments, Greece remains an attractive choice for investors seeking long-term benefits.

Immolymp will find your ideal property - our partners will take care of your Golden Visa!

Immolymp uses its strong network of specialists and partners to find the right property for you that fulfils the requirements for the Golden Visa. Our partners will then guide you through the entire application process. Use the Immolymp search tool to find the best investment opportunity for you. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation!

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